ASTM E10 Determining the Brinell Hardness of Metallic Materials

Introduction

The ASTM E10 test method uses the Brinell indentation hardness principle to determine the Brinell hardness of metallic materials. The values are in kilograms-force (kg). This test is considered satisfactory for acceptance testing of commercial shipments and has been used extensively in the industry. However,  testing a specific part may not represent the physical characteristics of the entire product. This article delves deeper into Brinell’s hardness scope, procedure, and calculation according to the ASTM E10 standards.

Scope

The ASTM E10 Brinell test is a simple yet effective method. It involves indenting the material with a hardened steel or carbide ball under a specified load. Further, ASTM E10 guides the size of the indenter and the test load, ensuring consistency and accuracy in hardness testing across laboratories and industries. Moreover, the ASTM E10 test provides information about the physical properties of metallic materials, such as tensile strength, ductility, and wear resistance. This test is significant in quality control and material selection. This test method is also helpful for acceptance testing in the commercial shipping industry.

ASTM E10 Test Procedure

In ASTM E10, the Brinell test is carried out by bringing the indenter into contact with the test surface. Then, the test force F is applied and maintained for about 10 to 15 seconds. Once the dwell time is achieved, remove the applied force without vibration. Later, the Brinell hardness number is calculated by taking the arithmetic mean of the measurements of the indentation diameter.

Specimen Size

The sample should be flat metallic material with a thickness of 0.25 inches. It can be of any shape and size, provided it fits into the test machine. The ambient temperature should be 10 to 35 °C (50 to 95 °F).

Result

A higher BHN indicates a more rigid material, which can help predict metallic materials’ wear resistance and durability.

Conclusion

The ASTM E10 method is a widely used and reliable way of determining the Brinell hardness of metallic materials, which carries vital information concerning tensile strength, ductility, and wear resistance. This test has beneficial applications in quality control and the selection of materials across various industrial uses. Follow the standards under ASTM E10 for accurate and relevant material testing, and take note that this method can also be considered in your quality assurance routine. For further assistance or to find out how ASTM E10 can benefit your particular needs in testing, contact our experts today and amplify the precision and reliability of your material evaluations.

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